Going into its ninth season with Ellen DeGeneres replacing Paula Abdul as a judge, many people are wondering if this season of "American Idol" will be as well received as previous years. In addition to Abdul’s departure this season, Simon Cowell has stated that he will not return for a tenth season, opting to judge his new show, "The X Factor." Regardless of the new talent, both of these factors may affect this season’s ratings.
On one hand, Paula’s departure may return the focus of the show from the constant bickering at the judges’ table to the singing and performing abilities of the top twelve contestants. The last few seasons of "American Idol" have seen the judges responding more to one another’s comments than the performances themselves. While the reason for Kara DioGuardi’s addition to the show is still unclear, it made for a welcome change last season. Using constructive criticism rather than useless or incoherent analogies, Kara’s supportive nature seemed to help the contestants and the show’s viewership. Perhaps Ellen can do the same.
Ellen has been involved with "American Idol" for several years. She participated in both “Idol Gives Back” events and generally features contestants that have been voted off of the show as guests on her daytime talk show.
On the other hand, Paula has been with the show since it debuted in 2002 and is adored by music and "Idol" fans alike. There has also been controversy through the years involving the show that may have some of her fans boycotting the show. Between the Corey Clark scandal, in which Abdul was accused of having an affair with a contestant and the crazed stalker that made it into auditions last year due to lack of security, one doesn’t have to wonder why Paula was not eager to renew her contract without the raise she requested. On either hand, the show will go on. Only time will tell how well it will be received post-Paula.
Comments (0):